After Operation Pillar of Defense: IAF prepares for next task

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Published: 25 November 2012

The IAF has begun reviewing its performance during Operation Pillar of Defense. During the operation the IAF conducted over 1,500 airstrikes

This week, Israel Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. Amir Eshel summarized the IAF's operations during Operation Pillar of Defense, which concluded last week. Maj. Gen. Eshel promised that the IAF would continue to be ready for any challenge, maintaining a high level of readiness for challenges in the future.

In a note sent to all officers and soldiers in the IAF, Maj. Gen. Eshel said, "Over the course of a week, operated against the upper echelon of terror organizations, their operatives and their infrastructure. The IAF carried out its missions in a clear and precise manner. We demonstrated the highest degree of professionalism, creativity, and execution, all while maintaining admirable morality."

An officer within the Air Force noted that "the offensive effort was based entirely on accurate intelligence that progressed in real-time. The extensive planning, execution, and precise attack caused serious and extensive damage to the terror organizations, all during complex operating conditions in the heart of urban areas. Our air defenses intercepted and downed hundreds of rockets fired at Israeli citizens in the southern and central regions of the country. It is an unprecedented achievement and a milestone in the history of warfare."

Maj. Gen. Eshel added, " There was impressive cooperation with the ground forces. We worked as a team in the air and on the ground, both attacking and defending. Combat soldiers, technical systems, support soldiers, at headquarters and in the field, regular forces and reservists, all worked together and the results are evident."

The IAF is now investigating the operation in order to better prepare for following conflicts. "The IAF will require capabilities for far more complex conflicts, we are heading in this direction," concluded Maj. Gen. Eshel.